Kuljeskellen

Kuljeskellen is a term used in Dutch-language discourse to describe a social practice centered on light, rolling foot movements performed in casual or ceremonial settings. The phrase appears in informal sources such as blogs, regional dialect descriptions, and online forums, with no single authoritative definition. The etymology of the word is unclear, and scholars have proposed several regional or dialectal sources, though there is no consensus.

The practice is described as a form of communal movement rather than a structured dance. Participants typically stand in a loose circle or line and execute slow, continuous steps that emphasize rolling or gliding motions rather than sharp steps. Rhythms are generally simple, and routines may be accompanied by clapping, whispered calls, or light vocalizations. Sessions can be short, lasting a minute or two, or extend longer during informal gatherings.

Cultural status and spread: kuljeskellen is most often associated with informal, community-based settings in Dutch-speaking areas, particularly in rural communities or districts with strong local dialects. It is rarely recorded in official cultural heritage inventories, and familiarity with the practice tends to be regional. The activity is commonly described as a playful or social pastime rather than a formal performance, serving as a means of social bonding and repeated, shared movement.

Variations and related forms: Some accounts describe regional variants in tempo, pace of the rolling steps, or the configuration of participants. Related activities include other forms of street performance, circle dances, and folk dances that emphasize group unity and continuous movement. See also: folk dance, street performance, circle dance.